Two men who risked their lives to save girls from a raging sea say their bravery has been snubbed.

Peter Chappell, 31, and Bob Watts, 57, were the first on the scene at Collywell Bay, Seaton Sluice, in February when they were alerted by passers-by about four young girls swept into the sea.

They pulled Emma Douglas, 12, and 13-year-old Katie Oakfield from the freezing water after Mr Chappell got ropes and lifting straps from his car.

They then turned their attention to Beth Gardner and Jade Anderson (pictured), both 12, who were still in the water. Mr Chappell intended to go in after her.

But police arrived and PC Darren Purvis went into the water attached to the rope held by the men to complete the rescue.

He was able to get Beth, who had tried to hold on to Jade in the sea before they were parted. Jade, the last to be rescued from the sea when PC Purvis was aided by a helicopter, died later.

Northumbria police announced last week that PC Purvis is to receive the Queen's Commendation for Bravery in January and the anglers feel he thoroughly deserves the award.

But Mr Chappell said: "We played a major part in it as well and we feel it hasn't been recognised.

"At the inquest the coroner had suggested we all be recommended for bravery awards. We all played a huge part and it was a team effort."

Mr Chappell, of Bedlington Station, and Mr Watts, of Seaton Delaval, had been fishing. Along with surfer Mark Dinning, who also took part in the rescue, they were called as witnesses to the inquest on Jade, of Deneside, Seghill.

A Northumbria police spokesman said: `'This was a team effort and the police and families appreciate the bravery of all those involved in the incident."